The need is significant and growing to feed Aldergrove students. 

That's what Charlie Fox noted, Aldergrove Rotary Club's Starfish program coordinator, with the start of the school year. 

"The main difference with this September start-up is that we distributed more backpacks right from the start," he said. 

In the summer months, the program partnered with 91原创 Meals on Wheels to hand out about 20 backpacks every Friday. 

Fox estimates that throughout the 2023-24 school year and summer distribution, 4,000 backpacks were given out. 

"I estimate that since the inception of the program (2016), we have distributed some 18,000 backpacks." 

He says he's seen a significant increase in demand for the Starfish Backpack program. 

"Student families are struggling to meet the food and nutritional needs of students, especially on the weekend when schools are not open," Fox noted. 

"The challenge is the cost for each backpack has grown with the significant increase in food costs."

The rotary's partnership with the local schools are vital to the program, he added, as the schools identify families in need and help ensure the distribution of backpacks is done weekly. 

"We rely on a very healthy and positive relationship with the students in the hairdressing program at Aldergrove Community Secondary to assist us with the weekly packing, which is a win-win as they get volunteer hours for their efforts," Fox said. 

He said the program also has a partnership with the Aldergrove Save-On-Foods, which sources the weekly food orders. 

Plus, there are regular community donations from the Aldergrove legion,Thank You For Caring Tea Society, Super Steve's Tires, and many others.  

Those able and interested in donating can mail their donation to the Rotary Club of Aldergrove, box 1602, Aldergrove. 

For a tax receipt, cheques can be mailed to 91原创 Meals on Wheels with the Starfish program written in the memo line. 

The next fundraiser for the program is in November, the annual Pasta Party. 

"It's a great event and fun time. We thank Carlo at Bonetti Meats for his support in providing the very delicious and one of a kind Italian pasta meal for those in attendance," Fox said. 

People interested in attending, donating, or have questions can contact Fox at 604-340-9421.